Experts at the Fort de Chartres State Historic Site will demonstrate the “art de vivre” – or art of life – that put food on French settlers’ tables and clothing on their backs 250 years ago.

The series of three presentations ends on March 26. Darrell Duensing will show visitors how sap from maple trees is turned into sugar. The demonstration from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. takes place during the annual Fort de Chartres Jardin Potager Weekend. More details will be available in March.

Fort de Chartres was built by the French military in the 1750s. It served as the seat of government and chief military installation in Illinois when France controlled the territory. The British then took it over and used it until 1772.

The site, operated by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, was declared a national historic landmark in 1960. The fort’s powder magazine is the oldest building in Illinois. It is open Thursday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A donation of $4 for adults, $2 for children, or $10 per family is suggested.

The Art de Vivre presentations are sponsored by Les Amis du Fort de Chartres.